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Wales Online
Wales Online
Sport
Jon Doel

Gareth Bale scores stunning 128th minute goal and wins MLS Cup final amid wild scenes

Gareth Bale came off the bench in the 97th minute to score a stunning goal that sent LAFC on the way to MLS glory.

It was Bale's first appearance on a football pitch for over a month and his last match before heading to the World Cup with Wales later this month.

With his side seemingly heading for a dramatic 3-2 extra time defeat against Philadelphia in the MLS Cup final, Bale fired a stunning header into the net in the 128th minute of an injury delayed extra time period to send the game to penalties.

Bale had been the talk of social media just half an hour earlier, with many LFC fans questioning why he remained on the bench with LAFC battling to win the MSL Cup.

He did little to make an impression after coming eventually on, but once again proved his class amid dramatic scenes.

That goal sent the game to a decisive penalty shootout. With Philadelphia missing all three of their opening spot kicks, LAFC won the shootout 3-0, sparking wild celebrations.

Bale has started just two matches for LAFC since joining in the summer, scoring three goals including tonight's. Despite his minimal contribution amid fitness troubles and a safety first approach ahead of the World Cup, he proved the difference for his 10-man side.

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